Distinguished Visiting Scholar Dr. Jonathan Mark Kenoyer instructs UHWO archaeology lab students on the basics of stone tool making.
UH West Oʻahu Distinguished Visiting Scholar Jonathan Mark Kenoyer conducted a workshop on ancient technologies for students in Dr. William Belcher’s ANTH 382 Archaeology Laboratory Techniques class. Kenoyer instructed students on the basics of stone tool making using innovative techniques seen only in India. Students learned about inverse, indirect percussion that occurs when the stone item is held against a wooden, iron, or antler stake and a small hammer is struck on the object to drive away small flakes. The technique allows for very good control of flaking in order to produce items like beads. Dr. Kenoyer also showed the class how to make haft drills with insect resin and cordage.
“One of Dr. Kenoyer’s special areas of research is ancient technologies and he has really perfected this hands-on method of studying ancient technology,” said UH West Oʻahu Assistant Professor of Archaeology, William Belcher. “This kind of learning helps to make the students even better archaeologists.”
UH West Oʻahu archaeology lab students making stone tools.
Dr. Jonathan Mark Kenoyer, professor in anthropology, has been teaching archaeology and ancient technology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison since 1985. He has served as field director and co-director of the Harappa Archaeological Research Project since 1986. Dr. Kenoyer discussed the Bronze Age Indus Civilization with UH West Oʻahu students, faculty, staff and community members during a presentation on April 19.
Related articles:
UHWO Distinguished Visiting Scholar Jonathan Mark Kenoyer to discuss Indus Civilization, April 19